KMPDU has officially called off the doctors’ strike in Homa Bay County following the successful conclusion of negotiations with the County Government and the signing of a Return to Work Agreement. The agreement marks an important milestone in addressing longstanding concerns affecting doctors while paving the way for the resumption of healthcare services across the county.
The resolution is the product of constructive dialogue, collective action, and the unwavering solidarity demonstrated by doctors throughout the dispute. It also reflects a shared commitment to resolving labour issues through engagement while safeguarding the delivery of quality healthcare.
Among the key outcomes of the agreement is the promotion and redesignation of 12 doctors, recognizing their professional growth and advancing career progression within the county health service. The County Government has also committed to clearing 50 percent of outstanding statutory deductions by 15 March 2026, with the remaining balance to be settled before the end of the 2025/2026 financial year.
To strengthen the welfare of healthcare workers, the County will procure a comprehensive medical insurance scheme by 30 April 2026, ensuring doctors and their dependants have access to adequate healthcare cover. In addition, all doctors who had been removed from the payroll will be fully reinstated, restoring their employment status and financial security.
The agreement further provides for the payment of outstanding salary arrears in March, April, and May 2026, offering long-awaited relief to affected doctors. It also secures the conversion of six doctors serving on contract to Permanent and Pensionable terms by 31 March 2026, while the County has committed to recruiting five additional doctors within the same period to strengthen healthcare services and ease staffing shortages.
Importantly, the agreement guarantees that no doctor will face victimization for participating in the industrial action. This includes protection against punitive salary actions, unfair transfers, or denial of leave, reaffirming the principles of fair labour practice and freedom of association.
With the agreement now in effect, doctors will resume duty from midnight, restoring services while implementation of the agreed commitments begins.
KMPDU commends its members in Homa Bay for their discipline, resilience, and unwavering unity throughout the process. The Union also acknowledges the County Government for engaging in meaningful negotiations that resulted in a mutually agreed resolution.
While the strike has come to an end, KMPDU will closely monitor the implementation of every commitment to ensure that the agreed timelines are honoured. The Union remains steadfast in its mission to protect the welfare, dignity, and professional rights of doctors, while continuing to advocate for better working conditions across all counties in Kenya.
Every successful agreement strengthens the profession. Every implemented commitment builds a stronger healthcare system. Together, we will continue advancing the rights of doctors and the quality of healthcare for all Kenyans.
